I am participating in this program and it's been an amazing experience. I have met entrepreneurs from all around the world and gained different insights that I would not have gained had I stayed in Denmark. Chile is also a very beautiful country and a great springboard to explore and learn other parts of Latin America.<p>While the program itself could be improved, especially the reimbursement process, I still think they have done a great job and I am pretty sure it will be improved in the future.<p>So come to Chile and build your startup - - with minimal risks involved ;)<p>The only thing I can recommend is that you have some cash when you come here (they recommend at least 5k USD) - - else the experience won't be that pleasant.
It's hard to underestimate how great this deal is.<p>You get a work visa, office space, support network and enough money for rent reimbursement, basic salary (more than ramen btw) AND with what's left you can hire the skills you lack. All this is FREE, you keep 100% of your equity.<p>Silicon Valley is of course the startup capital, but until there's an incubator that gives you the equivalent in cash ($100K in SV dollars?) and an instant visa (impossible) without taking equity (hah), Chile is the place to be.
I am a current Start-Up Chile participant (see also: <a href="http://www.startupchile.org/press/alum-participates-in-exciting-entrepreneurial-venture-in-chile/" rel="nofollow">http://www.startupchile.org/press/alum-participates-in-excit...</a>), and I too would encourage everyone to apply. The opportunity to meet, work with, and play with the other entrepreneurs in the program has been totally awesome. Chile is a beautiful country, and the locals have been really welcoming and supportive. I've even hired a Chilean with wonderful results.<p>Every part of the application is required and important. Treat them as such.<p>True, the reimbursement process is fair (10% founder contribution), but a complete pain in the ass. Those people who will do best in this program are those who with a "roll with it, make the best of it" kind of attitude.
The applications would be open until Oct. 27th. I would recommend all of you to apply. $40k without any equity and a chance to live in a beautiful country like Chile should not be missed. Plus, you get to meet entrepreneurs from all over the world.
I've been reading through the offer and the FAQs. The question I have is: am I forming a Chilean company by participating in this program?<p>It'd be nice for someone who has participated in this program to jump-in and give their thoughts on the experience.<p>I remember reading one participant's review of the program that boiled down to: bring more money than you think you'll need and, overall, it was a good experience.<p>I guess I'll send them an email for clarification on what they're wanting startups to commit to.
I cant seem to figure out but there is some problem with the forms.. i have all the 'required' fields filled and it still says.. 'One or more required team registration fields were incomplete.' very broad message, could be anything. also in some cases '100 words left' works and in others it doesn't. maybe that's the reason.. but now i can't save my form.